With the many fad diets creating waves in the space of nutrition science around these days, the practice of Naturopathic nutrition is an old (though new to some) form of nutritional therapy.
Naturopathic diet is not a new phenomenon; it has existed for thousands of years and predates modern diet and treatment.
The basic principle of Naturopathy is that the body contains its own healing power and nature assists in the body’s ability to use the natural world around it for that healing process.
Naturopathic Nutrition
Naturopathic Nutrition is used for the promotion of health and prevention of disease. It makes the body work with nature to promote healing. The body can heal by itself when the barrier or the underlying causes of the illness are removed. We do not just treat the symptoms.
Naturopathic Diet
Nutrition and nutritional healing are one of the most important aspects of naturopathic diet. In the practice of traditional diet, non-processed foods are what make a healthy diet, and today they are identified as the best way to good health.
In order to start with Naturopathic diet, remember SIMPLE AND CLEAN FOOD.
Simple foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. Clean foods that are free of chemical, additives and preservatives.
Foods that are typical of a naturopathic diet can include:
Raw fruits and vegetables (organic and seasonal)
Meats (free from pesticides, antibiotics and hormones)
Whole grains (organic)
Healthy oils ( cold pressed)
With this in mind, a typical naturopathic meal includes a combination of approximately 50 percent vegetables, 25 percent whole grains and 25 percent protein.
The modern man eats far too much. It is advisable to eat less, to eat good food that promotes vitality such as raw food, whole or semi-whole food (whole grain cereal, cold-pressed oils, natural sea salt with minerals, complete sugar).
Foods to Avoid
Naturopaths would advise avoiding:
· All refined grains and bread that has been processed
· Sugar and artificial sweeteners
· All processed and/or pre-packaged foods.
· Regular dairy items like cheese, milk products.
· tinned, frozen or dried foods
· Fish high in mercury
· All types of caffeine, alcohol and fruit juice
· Inflammatory oils- Trans fatty acids are found in hydrogenated oils, partially hydrogenated oils, shortenings and margarine.
How does a naturopathic plate looks like:
Possible Benefits
The benefits of a Naturopathic diet is that foods that are natural or wholesome, without toxins that poison the body, can treat and eliminate conditions that include digestive issues, food sensitivities, allergies, stress and anxiety, immune disorders, hormone imbalances, sleeplessness and chronic inflammatory disease.
When choosing to adopt naturopathic diet into your lifestyle, keep these tips into consideration to make informed decisions. These adaptations will benefit your body and mind, and enhance your lifestyle through the achievement of great health and a more positive you.
By: Ms Esther - SOL Senior Naturopath